Gallstones, Hernias, and Reflux Surgery

Gallstones, hernias and reflux

..are common complaints treated with this technology

Application of the microchip camera to General Surgery in the early 1990’s heralded a revolution in the way many procedures are done.

The laparoscopic approach is not suited to all operations, but there are distinct advantages when the technology is applied to some of the commonest complaints dealt with by General Surgeons: gallstones, hernias and reflux.

Gallbladder Procedures

Gallstones are also known as calculi. It is in the concentrated bile of the gallbladder that they precipitate out and grow. If one becomes wedged in the gallbladder outlet, problems can occur.

Hernia Procedures

A hernia occurs when a part of the abdominal contents, contained in its lining (the sac), pushes through a defect in the muscle wall, much in the way an inner tube pushes through a split in the tyre casing.

Single Incision Surgery

In recent years there has been interest in performing laparoscopic procedures through a single incision, rather than the multiple small incisions currently used for “conventional” laparoscopic surgery.

Acid Reflux Procedures

Gastro-oesophageal reflux occurs when stomach acid spills back up into the oesophagus. It is the result of a faulty valve mechanism between the stomach and oesophagus. The lining of the oesophagus is different from the stomach lining and is not built to.

Other Procedures

Many other procedures lend themselves to the laparoscopic approach. In the specialty of General Surgery, hernias, gallstones and reflux are the most common conditions treated, but many bowel operations, including appendicectomy.

Consultations & Bookings

For consultation, bookings can be made through Andrew’s secretary Monday to Friday, 0830hrs to 1700hrs. Outside of these times a message can be left.

The hospital is open continuously from either Monday at 0700hrs or Tuesday 0700hrs (alternating weeks) until Friday at 1700hrs. If patients are not ready for discharge by Friday afternoon, transfer to either Mercy or Ascot Hospital is arranged. This is very rarely required.